The rumors began after reports emerged of an emergency meeting being called for Buckingham Palace staff from around the country. They are expected to gather at the palace mid-morning.

The meeting is confirmed, but there is no grave reason for it.

Large staff meetings — called by the Queen’s private secretary Sir Christopher Geidt and the Lord Chamberlain, who runs the royal household — do happen periodically. There is some speculation that it could be about the Queen, who is 91, or Prince Philip, 95, standing down from some of their public duties.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman declined to comment.

Prince Philip was at an event in London on Wednesday, where he helped open the new Warner Stand at Lord’s Cricket Ground.